Qatar residents risk losing access to vital government services as the Ministry of Interior (MOI) ends Metrash2 on March 1, 2025. Users must download the new Metrash app immediately to maintain access to residency, traffic, and visa services.
Deadline for App Migration
The Qatar Ministry of Interior has issued a final reminder to all citizens and residents about the upcoming discontinuation of the Metrash2 application. March 1, 2025, the old application will no longer function, making it essential for users to switch to the new version.
This change affects over 2 million active users who rely on the app for critical government services. The ministry first announced this transition in December 2024 when it launched the redesigned Metrash platform with enhanced features and improved security.
How to Download the New Metrash Application?
The updated Metrash app is now available on both major mobile platforms:
- App Store for Apple devices (requires iOS 13 or higher)
- Google Play Store for Android devices (requires Android version 29 or higher)
Users should verify their device compatibility before attempting to download the application. Older devices that cannot run the required operating system versions will need to access services through alternative channels, such as the MOI website or in-person visits to service centers.
Key Improvements in the New Metrash App
The 2025 version of the Metrash application offers several significant upgrades over its predecessor:
User-Friendly Design
The new interface reduces the number of steps needed to complete common tasks, with clearer navigation and more intuitive menu structures.
Enhanced Payment Options
Users can now pay for services through multiple methods, including:
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Apple Pay
- Direct bank debit (limited to companies)
Advanced Security Features
The application includes improved data protection measures to safeguard personal information and transaction details.
Expanded Service Offerings
The updated app provides access to:
- Specialized security department services
- GCC national services for ID card renewal and replacement
- More comprehensive family member management options
Managing Family Members Without Phone Numbers
A standout feature in the new Metrash application addresses a common challenge for Qatar families. The updated system allows account holders to manage services for family members who don’t have registered phone numbers—particularly beneficial for dependents like children or spouses without mobile plans.
Using Metrash on Multiple Devices
The new application supports simultaneous activation on two devices, allowing:
- Family sharing of a single account
- Access from both phone and tablet for the same user
Essential Services Available Through Metrash
The Metrash application continues to provide access to critical government services across several categories:
Residency Services
- Issue and renew residency permits
- Replace damaged Qatar ID cards
- Renew Qatar ID Card
- Check Qatar ID Status
- Cancel your Qatar ID
- Transfer sponsorship
- Set up automatic RP renewal
Traffic Services
- Renew driving licenses
- Check and pay traffic violations
- Transfer vehicle ownership
- Request vehicle inspection
Visa Services
- Apply for new visas
- Extend existing visas
- Track application status
- Cancel visas
Additional Features
- Register travel plans
- Apply for return permits
- Submit national address registration
- Request police clearance certificates
- Apply for security permits
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Users experiencing problems with the new application can try these solutions:
For Forgotten PIN Codes
Select “Forgot PIN?” on the login screen to receive a reset link via SMS.
For Registration Errors
Most registration failures occur because:
- Phone number doesn’t match QID records
- QID has expired
- Previous registration exists
Contact your telecom provider (Ooredoo or Vodafone) to verify phone number ownership if problems persist.
For Payment Failures
When payments don’t process:
- Check card validity and available balance
- Verify international transactions are enabled
- Try an alternative payment method
For App Performance Problems
Fix crashes or freezes by:
- Updating to the latest app version
- Clearing the app cache
- Restarting your device
- Checking for available storage space
History of Metrash
The Ministry of Interior established the original Metrash service in 2006 as a simple SMS notification system. It initially alerted residents about traffic violations, residency permit expiry, and license expiration dates.
Early adoption faced challenges due to complicated registration procedures that required visits to MOI self-service kiosks. Over time, the process evolved into today’s comprehensive digital platform serving over 2 million users with more than 250 different services available 24/7.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of Metrash2 on March 1, 2025, marks an important transition for all Qatar residents and citizens. To maintain uninterrupted access to essential government services, users must download the new Metrash application before the cutoff date.
The upgraded app offers improved features, enhanced security, and greater convenience—continuing the Ministry of Interior’s commitment to digital service excellence. Those who fail to make the switch will lose access to critical online services until they install the new application.
Abdullah Hasham is an expat living in Qatar and the founder of Qatar Navigate. Drawing from his own experiences, he creates practical, easy-to-follow guides to help others settle in, explore, and thrive in Qatar. His goal is to make everyday life simpler for fellow expats, residents, and newcomers alike.